First, given what you are going to be going through in a month or so, I suggest doing a lot of research into a product called Tylenol. It should be listed as number one on the list of requirements you received, as it's going to become your best friend.
Basically, that's my way of saying ''good luck,'' as I know how hectic your upcoming year's going to be.
While the differences are great when comparing HP and Dell, Dell has the edge on PDAs. (However, when it comes to computers, my HP is still number one.) Both companies offer the same features with nearly identical hardware and the same OS (currently Windows Mobile 2003SE). The only real difference on this aspect is that the OS is customized by the manufacturer, allowing a few addins to be made. However, aside from HP's ''media companion'' interface, they're almost indistinguishable.
As far as accessories go, they both come with the same package...PDA, cradle, power cable, operating CD, etc. But, HP has the edge here by offering accessories in all major stores...Best Buy, Circuit City, etc. Dell, on the other hand, requires you to buy everything directly from them...no late night runs for a spare part (more like a couple week wait while you come up with excuses
). HP also comes with more free software on their CD, but the couple of free utilities and occasional game aren't deal breakers. (Dell's ''weak bundle'' is because a lot of their software is only trial versions.)
However, Dell more than makes up for these ''shortcomings.'' They offer a full 1-year warrenty, while HP's is limited to just 90-days...big difference, especially since support can only be obtained directly from the manufacturer. (Good luck finding a local PDA repair shop that's authorized to work on your device.) Then, when you add on the extra $100 for an HP with similar specs, Dell's there waiting with open arms. ![]()
Hope this helps,
John
P.S. It's important to note that with a PDA, you obtain OS upgrades from your manufacturer...NOT Microsoft. (The software must be customized for your specific device.) Any glitches usually are specific to your model, and are handeled by Dell/HP/etc. Also, Windows Mobile 5.0 is to be released shortly, and is limited to certain models. (The X50 will receive a free upgrade if you buy now, but the X30 is slowly being ''retired,'' and will not receive the upgrade. I'm unsure about particular HP models.)
I am a nursing student beginning clinicals this fall. It has been strongly recommended (key word "strongly") to purchase a PDA. We will be using them for mainly refernce materials such as Davis' drug guides and dosage calculators and so forth. I read the forum from Brazilian Girlie and found it useful but I still have questions.
What about the HP iPAQ's? I like the Dell idea (My pc is a dell 8300). One response was that Dell's are generally lower priced. I kind of disagree on that because as I purchased my PC there were a lot of hidden costs such as having to buy the Windows XP.
As I was reading some Dell Axim reviews that was also an issue was that there bundle was a bit weak.
I was looking at the reviews and I am now more confused thatn ever. The only decision that I have made is to go the pocket pc route beacuse of the exchangeable battery.
Any suggestions?

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